New research shows car and truck wash chemical can cause serious burns to workers

Tumwater – A chemical commonly used in commercial car and truck washes can be dangerous to the health of people who work with it, according to new research by the Department of Labor & Industries’ (L&I) SHARP Program.

A close look at workers’ compensation injury reports over a 12-year period shows nearly 50 workers in Washington were burned after coming in contact with hydrofluoric acid-based car and truck wash products.

SHARP, an occupational safety and health research program at L&I, found seven of the injured workers were hurt seriously enough to require hospitalization. The program looked at reports from 2001 – 2013. The new research is being published this week in the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report.

“Hydrofluoric acid is insidiously toxic at the low concentrations used in vehicle washing,” said Carolyn Whitaker, SHARP researcher. “Initially, when it touches the skin there may be little or no pain. That means workers are often unaware of the burn until later and typically delay getting treatment.”

The chemical is often used in car and truck wash products to brighten aluminum and break down roadway grime. About half of those injured worked in commercial car washes. The study also found injuries to truck drivers and truck wash workers.

The SHARP Program has developed an easy-to-read safety hazard alert for car and truck wash employers and workers. Whitaker and the SHARP Program strongly recommend that car and truck washes use alternative products that do not include hydrofluoric acid. When this chemical is used, workplaces should take steps to minimize exposure, make sure employees are trained and fully aware of the serious hazard, and make sure they wear appropriate personal protective gear.

Consumers should be aware that the chemical is also used in wheel brightening and boat brightening products sold for home use. Even low concentrations can be hazardous. L&I recommends that people using these products look for alternatives and closely follow the directions on the label regarding personal protective equipment.

For media information or a copy of the citations, contactTim Church, L&I Public Affairs at 360-902-5673.

Broadcast version:
A chemical commonly used in commercial car and truck washes can be dangerous to the health of people who work with it, according to new research by the Department of Labor & Industries’ (L&I) SHARP Program. Workers’ compensation injury reports over a recent 12-year period show nearly 50 workers in Washington were burned after coming in contact with hydrofluoric acid-based vehicle wash products. Seven required hospitalization. About half of those injured worked in commercial car washes. The study also found injuries to truck drivers and truck wash workers.

The program is distributing a hazard alert for car and truck wash employers and workers, and strongly recommends that car and truck washes use alternative products that do not include hydrofluoric acid. When this chemical is used, workplaces should take steps to minimize exposure, make sure employees are trained and fully aware of the serious hazard, and make sure they wear appropriate personal protective gear. The chemical is also used in products sold for home use. L&I recommends that people look for alternatives and closely follow the directions on the label.